BEST SHOTS: TEEN TITANS, FREEDOM FIGHTERS, X-MEN, UXM ANNUAL, AND...

[MattBrady]

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Thanks to those of you that sent me birthday greetings last week! It was nice to see that many messages for the ole’ 33rd.

Quick reminder: each individual review is credited to the person that wrote that review. If you wish to address a question or comment to the writer for a particular item, please note that line. Matt Brady, while a swell guy and listed as the poster of this column every week, doesn’t actually write any of the reviews. I write the intro, some of the sign-offs, and the reviews credited to me; everything else comes from the other individual reviewers.

Thanks for reading, and let’s go . . .

Teen Titans #38
From: DC
Writer: Geoff Johns
Art: Carlos Ferreira and Art Thibert & Drew Geraci
Review by The Rev. OJ Flow

Teen Titans #38 is by no means a truly great issue, but there is a lot to love if you are a fan of this title and its legacy. I only say it's not "truly great" because #38 lacks that special something that allows it to stand on its own, but there is some enjoyable things that have me excited. "Titans Around the World" is an engaging start to an adventure that hopefully allows the current Titans to become a more powerful, mature and confident unit than they have been since we've seen them "One Year Later." How refreshing that at one point the focal point of Part One, Red Star, basically speaks for readers like myself in saying that this lineup shouldn't last because the core Titans new and old can't go five minutes without bickering. You never want to see a varied group of individuals toe the line and become obedient yes-men, but I am ready to see this incarnation of Titans get over themselves and become the first-rate superhero team they're supposed to be. I believe writer Geoff Johns recognizes that as well.

As for #38's production, one aspect of it proved to be a pleasant surprise rather than the disappointment it could've been where substitutes are concerned. Tony Daniel has been an MVP candidate with his continuously improving art on Teen Titans, but you figured he needed a break sometime, and here's where we got it. I understand that fill-ins are a necessary industry norm these days, but it's always going to be a letdown when there's a clear drop-off in quality. Not the case here. Prior to opening this book up, I was unfamiliar with the penciling work of Carlos Ferreira, but I would love to see him on more high-profile books. It reminded me of the first work Kevin Maguire did on Justice League, particularly the couple or so issues that were inked by Terry Austin. Ferreira gets top-notch assistance here by Art Thibert and Drew Geraci, two of the best ink-slingers in the biz. Ferreira does a great job capturing the various stages of youth, especially in an opening sequence with the Titans taking care of business against bad guy Girder, a Flash baddie from Geoff Johns’s time on The Flash.

What I enjoyed most about Titans this time around was that, to me, it felt like it did when I first fell for this book as produced by Johns and the outstanding Mike McKone. It had a lot of that same vibe, underscored by the fact that the youthful superteam is on a mission revolving around a mystery with teammate Raven and a quest to find her. This story also has a somber tone in that it addresses the status of a couple of different Titan casualties from last year's infamous battle with Superboy Prime in Infinite Crisis. Former member Risk is in a pretty bad way since losing an arm, and we see the groundwork being laid down for the long hinted at meeting with Titans East. When the Titans later visit the former Soviet Union to tap information from their old associate Red Star (now, along with Rocket Reds, acting as the official state protector of Russia), they are confronted with their team's penchant for mortality in a sadly reflective moment of the book. Red Star in particular lost a lot when Superboy Prime ran roughshod over an expanded collective of Titans, and he understandably has little confidence in this current incarnation he's encountered.

But you can almost hear the wheels in motion as there's indications that the Titans are set for a resurgence. And if there's any doubt of that, a 2-page spread showing the scores of members who walked in and out of Titans Tower during the team's recent off year hint at fun things to come. I was tickled to see a couple characters from the recent cartoon series make their way to the DC Universe, Mas y Menos and Hot Spot. Plus there's a lot of new characters who are apparently kid versions of adult heroes and offspring of others like, um, Offspring (Plastic Man's son). And it wouldn't be a Johns-penned tale if Black Adam didn't get a nod, but it looks to have purpose. So does this book right now. The first part of "Titans Around the World" is a good start to a once again great title.

We think OJ should have a teen sidekick. Right now, we’ve got the candidates narrowed down to Tattooed Lad, Young Reverend, Kid Chicago, and Statutory Lass. Any other suggestions?

Uncle Sam and the Freedom Fighters #2
From: DC
Writers: Jimmy Palmiotti, Justin Gray
Art: Daniel Acuna
Recap and Review by Koben Kelly

What a difference one issue can make.

In their premier issue, we were given a peep at the lives of the gang. The Ray, a man of living light who spends his days living a life of excess. Doll Man, a permanently pint-sized commando living in a miniature city in a semblance of normality. Phantom Lady, a
spoiled trust fund casualty who does the superhero thing to alleviate her boredom. Human Bomb, biologically explosive and at a lack for human contact. All four under the rule of S.H.A.D.E.'s Father Time, sent on special ops missions for the betterment
of the country.

All four had been sent out to apprehend Uncle Sam, a man wanted for treason against the United States. Things seem to have taken a different course. S.H.A.D.E. troops, the first to go after Sam, have not made contact since oh-nine-hundred, and the big boys are nervous. When the team finds their man, something completely other than what they expected takes place. He just wants to talk to them. He wants them to see his side
of the story.

As I was reading this, several questions sprang to mind. Can this man actually be the living embodiment of the American spirit? He appears to intuitively know so much about them all. Would the actual Uncle Sam be so reasonable and kind? Or would he be flawed and self-serving? Armed with nothing more than facts and compassion, Sam
systematically brings all four around to his way of thinking. This is what the true America would do, present the truth and let it take hold. It's almost as if Sam removes the scales from their eyes. What they have been doing is not heroic, not noble, and certainly not patriotic. He knows them, who they truly are, and he loves them. He wants the best for the American people, even if it costs a few lost lives. As the saying goes, the truth shall set you free.

When Sam's non-combative methods sway them, the team realizes they have all been brought together for a bigger purpose... to be Freedom Fighters united under Sam's guiding hand. Under the guise of bringing in a captured Uncle Sam, the team returns to S.H.A.D.E. headquarters with the intent of freeing a fifth Fighter. In the process, a retaliatory measure results in a major player's death. This accidental killing is not swept under the rug. The ugliness and pain of the demise is dealt with in an unglamorous manner, demonstrating the harsh reality of warfare.

Meanwhile, Phantom Lady's father (or IS it her father?), Henry Knight, is winning the Presidential race by a landslide. Of note, a graphic showing how the election is progressing displays all of Senator Knight's states as red states. Seems that Palmiotti
and Gray are anything but happy with the current administration. Secret metahuman special ops teams doing the government's dirty work, a secret agency attempting to imprison the spirit of America, a successful right-wing candidate being anything but
what he seems... it's pretty clear.

I had my doubts when it was announced that Acuna was handling the art chores on this series. Even though his covers for JLA and Outsiders had been amazing, sometimes the ability to produce fantastic covers does not translate to good storytelling technique. Well, I'm happy to say that my doubts were unnecessary. Acuna has a knack for clear actions and character, and his design sense is put to solid use. The initial images of the new Phantom Lady were a little over-the-top in a Power Girl sense. Well, it seems that Daniel has cut back a little, making her curvy and sexy, but not ridiculous. Also, his interpretation of how this Ray's power manifests is quite clever in its use of dark vs. light.

It's a bit odd to me how up and down I am on Palmiotti and Gray's writing. So far, I love this series. I've also enjoyed every issue of Hex. On the other hand, I can't get into Heroes For Hire, and I thought Battle For Bludhaven was atrocious. I
sincerely applaud their efforts to give each series they work on its own unique voice. This one just happens to work for me.

I give Uncle Sam and the Freedom Fightersissue two seven-and-a-half out of ten Pantolianos.

Ultimate X-Men Annual #2
From: Marvel
Writer: Robert Kirkman
Art: Salvador Larroca
Review by Koben Kelly

The thing about Kirkman's recent issues of Ultimate X-Men that has some fans complaining is that they appear to only be a reinterpretation of previously told stories. I, myself, enjoy the remixing that he's done, and to an extent, that's the purpose of the
Ultimate line. This second annual is anything but a twice told tale.

Kirkman has been laying down the groundwork for this annual in the pages of the monthly for some time now. Kurt's behavior has been getting more and more irrational, first with his avoidance of Peter's sexuality, second with his vigil over Alison's comatose body. You would think that someone who has been an alienated minority from birth would have a bit more compassion for another outsider. It has also been apparent that Kurt's been spending way too much time by Ali's side. I was under the impression the
homophobia was just a sad, ironic twist to his character, and that he felt somewhat fatherly and protective in respects to Dazzler.

So not the case.

After a brief flashback to one of Kurt's missions while under the orders of Weapon X, we see Kurt still hovering over Alison's comatose body. When Ali finally comes to and addresses him, it's painfully obvious that no one's home. He's totally spaced-out.
Moments pass, and when Kurt finally snaps back to reality, he immediately 'ports the two of them to a secret hideaway location. As he explains to Ali the need for them to hide from would-be attackers, it becomes painfully obvious what's going on. He's lying to her, keeping her all to himself.

To go into detail about any more of the story would be to ruin this shocking chapter in the lives of the Ultimate X-Men. I can say this: it gets worse. The Ultimate Nightcrawler will be taking up a much different position with his team than his counterpart in the 616. His time with Weapon X has seemingly created deep, deep scars in his psyche.

The art in this issue is tough to make a call on. While I don't have major exposure to Larroca's previous work, I'm positive it has looked better than this. The smooth and definite lines have given way to scratchy, sketchy work. One possible explanation is
that he's inking his own pencils this time around. Don't get me wrong, his storytelling and pacing decisions are on the money. After finishing the book, I'm sure he was the best man for this particular job. It's just that I know he's capable of better. It brings to mind the difference between what a certain artist produced for New X-Men in a matter of days versus what he produced for Cable when he actually had time to it right. Maybe Salvador was phoned up at the last minute possible when someone else jumped ship.

If you're an X-fan of any type, this is an annual not to be missed. If you're a Kirkman fan at all, this is his best work on a merry mutant title, so far. I would also go as far as to say this is my favorite Ultimate annual ever. It will have lasting effects on the UXM from here on out. Also included is a two-pager from Kirkman and Leinil Yu. It's a silly, little explanation for why Xavier's cat is named Mystique, involving Charles, Emma Frost,
and (of course) Mystique. Ultimately (heh) forgettable, but a bit of goofy fun after such a
harrowing tale.

I give Ultimate X-Men Annual # 2 eight out of ten Weevils.

Koben Kelly remains a big believer in the “bald guy” rating system.

X-Men #190
From: Marvel
Writer: Mike Carey
Art: Chris Bachalo
Review by Janelle Siegel

If you haven't been reading X-Men, I don't know why, but you really need to jump back in. Well, you needed to jump in starting with issue #188. I'm feeling more gripped by this arc than I have by any X-book other than Astonishing in two, maybe three years. It's nice to not only see a good X-Men book written by someone other than Joss Whedon (God bless him), it's also nice to see my favorite character, Rogue, written not just well, but with depth.

If you haven't been reading, right now the X-Men have an enemy they know nothing about. These enemies are called the Children of the Vault, and they have multiple powers. In this particular issue, they've sent Northstar and Aurora to attack the X-Mansion. Chaos ensues (and stuff gets blowed up).

When I read X-Men #188, I jumped for joy. When I read X-Men #189 I asked my husband if I could divorce him for Mike Carey and Chris Bachalo. When reading this issue, I simply want to coerce anyone who has the ability to give me the next issue ASAP before I destroy the world (I really can, I'm omnipotent). It really is gripping stuff. Carey actually shows each character's differences in subtle, simple ways that lesser writers seem incapable of. The story itself is not a cliche nor is it an old villain that the X-Men are fighting for the umpteenth time. New villains and new story, and it's so good I can't put it down. The art is phenomenal as well, with my only gripe being that perhaps they should have only had one inker on this issue, rather than 6. I'm not even kidding, there really were 6 inkers. The only place I could see that this had a negative impact on the art was on a couple pages where there was an interaction between Cable and Sabertooth. The art there wasn't bad at all, it was simply a different style from the rest of the book. For the most part the art verges on the cartoony but remains clean. The couple of pages I mentioned were very... sketchy. Not in a bad way, at all. I would have loved it on a different book, or even on a whole book. On two pages in the middle of much cleaner art, it looked like a sore thumb, and interrupted my enjoyment of the book for a millisecond.

On the whole, this is another wonderful installment of Carey and Bachalo's work thus far. I'm anxious to see where they're going, and loving the ride.

We are also firmly of the collective opinion that Lucas is Janelle’s sidekick, and not vice versa.

Cable/Deadpool #31
From: Marvel
Writer: Fabian Nicieza
Art: Staz Johnson and Klaus Janson
Review by Lucas Siegel

Ah, the Civil War drought did not affect everything, at least. Thank goodness, because if I don't get my fix of Cable/Deadpool on a regular basis, my whole world gets screwed up: Up becomes Down, Left becomes Right, Trolls become Reasonable Posters...it just hurts. Deadpool was deputized by the government to be a hero hunter last issue, and took it directly to the big wigs of the "Secret Avengers." Meanwhile, out of respect for Captain America, Cable agreed to peripherally support le resistánce. In this issue, their worlds collide.

The mix of action and comedy flow wonderfully as usual, and we get to see exactly why Deadpool is considered a deadly mercenary, and someone to be feared (not just laughed at). His instant planning, the quickness of his movements, and his deadly strikes show that his time with a brilliant soldier from the future has paid off. Now, the book takes a very political turn, and should have the message boards hopping. Two secrets are revealed/teased at, that I'm sure Marvel had to debate like crazy to decide whether to push this issue back or just put it out. I personally didn't feel spoiled at all, but am now instead desperately wanting Civil War #4 so I can find out who dies. While Cable alludes to it, and even reveals the killer, he does not say the name of the man that kicked the bucket. The "Fifty States Initiative" is also finally revealed, so if you're not picking up the peripheral titles, you may want to pick this one up so you can keep up with the Joneses.

The one question I've yet to see officially answered is who the regular artist will be on this book from here on out. The art was ever so slightly muddier this time around than what we got used to with Zircher, but this is clearly a team that could go the distance if
they're given time to get used to the characters.

Overall, if you're a fan of either of these characters, you should be reading this book in general and should definitely read this issue. If you're reading Civil War, pick up this issue, because it will blow your mind with a revelation, a tease, and another revelation. If you breathe, and blood flows through your veins, you should buy this book because it's just entertaining, month in and month out. I give this 1 Cable and 1 Deadpool out of 2 crazy cool Liefeld characters.

I hear that Lucas apparently insists that Janelle is his sidekick, but obviously doesn’t want us to say that he said that.

Battlestar Galactica #1
From: Dynamite Entertainment
Writer: Greg Pak
Art: Nigel Raynor
Review by Troy Brownfield

As someone who has had some truck lately with adapting a prose novel into comic form, I have to say that I have all the respect in the world for those who can pull off a competent adaptation between media. The present Battlestar Galactica television series, marked by strong writing, high drama, terrific acting, and dozens of positive reviews, would seem like a particular bear to adapt. Its feel is so specific and so reliant on a number of intangible elements (like that pervasive feeling of impending doom and the almost certain knowledge that humanity is really all but screwed) that it’s understandably hard to capture for the comic page.

Greg Pak manages to do it. I’ve really enjoyed his recent run on Hulk, and it’s obvious that he’s got a feel for playing the ensemble cast. While we really only see a handful of the show’s expansive cast in larger action (many characters have smaller roles this time around), Pak really seems to have grabbed those character’s voices and made them work. Grounding the story firmly between established episodes (as shown inside the front cover) is a wise call for all concerned; it allows the story to branch off into different directions before returning to a concrete point in a recognized storyline.

In terms of the art, Nigel Raynor does a good job, but my immediate impression is that he may not be quite gritty enough at this point to perfectly reflect the show. That said, he certainly has the chops to hit that point. Similarly, while I’m usually wowed by Dynamite’s colors (and don’t get me wrong, the colors as they are stand strong), I can’t help but feel that there was a missed opportunity here with the tones. The show often reflects a muted, even overcast blue palette, and that could have been used to great effect here (two panels, with Apollo and Adama watching terrorists on a viewscreen, actually do employ it a bit, and I thought, “There! That’s exactly it!”).

Overall, it’s a strong start, playing with one of the great, unexplored characters of both BG incarnations. The ending is par for the course for the beleaguered band of refugees, and I see room for a lot of good storytelling as things roll forward. This is a must if you’re already a regular viewer; if you’re not, embrace the series (recap special airs October 6th!) and head back to the comic shop for this one.

RETRO REVIEW
Justice League International Annual #2
Writers: Keith Giffen & J.M. DeMatteis
Artists: Bill Willingham & Joe Rubinstein
From: DC Comics
Review by Corey Henson

Back before 1988, my interest in comic books was largely casual. I’d been a fan for as long as I could remember: I’d pick up the odd Spider-Man comic at the local convenience store, or spend the afternoon in the grocery store reading Avengers while my mom did the shopping. But it wasn’t until I was about 12 years old that my passing interest turned into full-blown obsession, thanks largely to two titles: Uncanny X-Men and Justice League International. (While most lads my age were discovering girls, I was more captivated by Chris Claremont and Keith Giffen. Sadly, this explains a lot about the direction my life has headed since then.)

The first two years of the Giffen/DeMatteis JLI were filled with memorable moments and issues, and the second annual is definitely one of my favorites. In this issue, the Justice League is taking the day off, and the team enjoys some down time for a few hours before meeting at the suburban home of Mister Miracle and Big Barda for a weenie roast. Needless to say, the day ends up being a complete disaster, thanks to the Joker, who forms an alliance with the supreme dictator of Bialya to assassinate the JLI, and the antics of Blue Beetle and Booster Gold, who take on a freelance job repossessing a tank to make a little extra cash. There’s a lot going on in the issue, with several Leaguers getting face time--J’Onn J’Onzz and Rocket Red party hardy at a Russian restaurant, Fire and Ice audition for the Ford Modeling Agency, Miracle and Guy Gardner try to assemble the BBQ grill without blowing themselves and the neighborhood up, and Barda struggles to figure out just what the hell is a weenie. All the while, the Joker cruises around town in his limo, slurping malts and failing miserably to kill anyone except the unfortunate Bialyans assigned to help him snuff out the Leaguers.

If there’s a problem with the writing, it’s that there’s no dramatic tension in the story, since the entire issue is essentially one long gag. Even when the Joker crashes the party and commandeers the repossessed tank, the League treats the situation with the same lack of seriousness they afford everything else. (Blue Beetle: “Scott, I didn’t know you invited the Joker.”) It’s hard to believe your main characters are in any danger when they don’t act like they’re actually in any danger. The monthly series worked around this problem by knowing when to occasionally temper the comedy with real drama; the brainwashing of Blue Beetle storyline being a perfect example.

Then again, the annual is packed with hilariousness, whether it’s Mister Miracle bemoaning the fact that he can assemble a Mother Box but a BBQ grill stymies him, Barda’s begrudging attempt to play the happy housewife, or best of all, Batman’s priceless reaction to seeing the carnage caused by the Joker and his teammates (“No. Not today. I’m really not in the mood for this.”). Fortunately the book was successful more often than not when played for laughs.

Giffen and DeMatteis brilliantly portray the Joker, who is often written as an unfunny, one-note villain. Here he is scary and hilarious at the same time, professing his love for Judge Wapner and indiscriminately killing his lackeys, then going completely off his nut and demanding to be taken back to Arkham when his entire day goes straight to hell.

Of course, when you think of the JLI, you think of the late and lamented Blue Beetle and Booster Gold, the Laurel and Hardy of the four-color set. This story offers a perfect example of why the duo remains so popular nearly twenty years after their glory days. Though you could argue that Giffen and DeMatteis ignored the character development of previous writers to suit their own means--Beetle in particular was never as buffoonish as he was portrayed in JLI--they struck gold (no pun intended… or was it?) when they paired the two heroes. Beetle and Booster worked very well together, had great chemistry, and provided much of the title’s vaunted humor. This is one of their best stories together, as it perfectly encapsulates their partnership, depicting their occasional selfishness and knack for causing unneeded problems for the team.

Artwork is provided by penciller Bill Willingham, best known today as the writer of Vertigo’s Fables. Yes, the man can draw, though he doesn’t seem to do a lot of that these days (outside of the recent Shadowpact). His pencils are solid, if somewhat bland, at least when compared to the artwork that graces the stands these days. The layouts are a bit unimaginative, sticking to basic square panel grids. But as we say down here in Texas, it’s “all steak and no sizzle,” meaning that while the book doesn’t look flashy, Willingham’s storytelling chops are top-notch, and the various characters appearing in the story look great (except for Fire, who kind of looks like a transsexual). The great Joe Rubinstein deserves much credit for the book’s aesthetics as well, as he proves why he’s earned his reputation over the years as one of comics’ greatest inkers.

Count me among the legion of fans carrying a grudge against DC for what’s happened to the JLI, and Blue Beetle and Booster Gold in particular, over the past year and a half. I don’t believe any at DC has an ax to grind against Giffen and DeMatteis, but Justice League International was one of DC’s top books in the late eighties, both creatively and commercially, and I think their run deserves more respect than it’s getting.

Corey Henson has absolutely no idea how to pronounce "DeMatteis." Hell, he can barely even spell it.

Pellet Reviews!

Black Panther #19 (Marvel; by J. Caleb Mozzocco): Marvel's premiere superpower couple finish up their honeymoon on a deserted, uncharted isle (a wedding gift from Namor) and then prepare to launch a world tour, stopping in for visits/team-ups/smackdowns with all the other Marvel masked monarchs. It's a really fun idea for a story that writer Reginald Hudlin's come up with, but the first stop, Victor Von Doom's Latveria, leads to a rather lackluster story. I appreciate Hudlin's politics and willingness to inject them in his funny books--as he does nicely in a Meanwhile, Back in Washington scene--but not when he transfers attitudes to characters not particularly known for them. For example, Doom makes more than one racist crack here ("I've always said the African is a superior *physical* specimen...") which just doesn't sound like the Doom I know. Yeah, he's a villain, but that doesn't have to automatically make him a scumbag, does it? Regardless, the premise for the arc is strong enough to stick with to see if the Panther and Storm get along with the Inhumans or Namor any better than they did Doom.

She-Hulk #11 (Marvel; by Caleb): Marvel's other newlyweds are having much worse problems than T'Challa and Ororo are. Big, hairy problems. John Jameson has gone Man-Wolf on Shulkie and Pug, Two-Gun Kid loads up with silver bullets, and the off switch gets hit on more than one relationship in this book. Writer Dan Slott has a ton going on this issue, and at least one fun conversation--is there a difference between a wolf-man and a man-wolf?--and artist Rick Burchett has found his footing quickly, drawing a heck of a Man-Wolf and a great Two-Gun Kid.

Justice #7 (DC; by Kevin Huxford): This issue somehow managed to feel like it was packed with developments and treading water at the same time. I'd attribute it to the story just not having the right flow this issue. The four to five bit focused on just don't seamlessly blend into each other, but, instead, come off like one of the clunkier episodes of the TV series Lost: there are a few subplots moved along, but the it just doesn't feel as satisfying as you may have hoped. Don't get me wrong...there are some good developments and I found myself cheesin' a few times over some pure fanboy moments. While moments like those can make or break a story for many individuals out there, they aren't necessarily the sign of a well-written story. Just the opposite is often true: fanboy developments are primarily used as crutches. I wouldn't go so far as to say that Alex Ross and company are employing them as a crutch here...but, in all honesty, I'm mostly hedging against you, gentle reader, vociferously disagreeing with me on the quality of this issue just because you loved the little moments that Mr. Ross has probably dreamed of seeing just as much as he loved getting them into the book. Those moments are great...but I find that, if you step far enough back for just a moment, you can see that this issue certainly could have been improved upon.

JLA Classified #26 (DC; by Kevin): Maybe I was just glad to see the Englehart run done in the book (and its accursed, unannounced crossover into JSA Classified), but I actually enjoyed this issue a lot. As I feel with many first issues in a storyline, how this issue should be seen will be greatly effected by the issues yet to come. This is the case with your typical "written for the trade" storylines...very hard to judge since they are but a chapter in a story. The issue is mostly setup, but it is a lot of fun even for just the payoff of the way the whole gang is gathered in the final few pages and panels. I have slight problems with Batman's characterization in how he deals with his teammates, but the issue demonstrates a lot of promise for this arc, overall.

All Star Superman #5 (DC; by OJ): If nothing else, Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely have a nifty little streak going in terms of entries for "Greatest [insert Superman Family member here] Stories Ever." The funny thing is that in this case you could say it's the case with this issue for Clark Kent as much as you can Lex Luthor. From my recollection it's as amazing a match-up of Clark and Lex, sort of new ground from my recollection. And you know you are dealing with an extraordinary creative team when you produce a brilliant Man of Steel tale without our hero ever getting into costume (and I'll rate it 5 bananas for the manner in which we do get a glimpse of the blue & red tights). Here's hoping that Adam Hughes is taking notes with his upcoming All Star Wonder Woman in development, because this book positively owns the other All Star title.

Doc Frankenstein # 5 (Burlyman Entertainment; by Koben): The delays between issues drive me bonkers, but for this issue, I can say that the wait was worth it. Trapped and restrained by a werewolf clan with revenge on their minds, the Doc is helpless as he is systematically mutilated. While the torture is taking place, flashback after flashback tell the story of his long history with the lycanthropic family. Skroce's art this issue is a horror fan's wet dream. I've never seen werewolves depicted in such a detailed and loving manner. Another major portion of the book is dedicated to the biblical education a servant of God receives from a fairy he frees from imprisonment. The Wachowskis have come up with a beautiful alternative take on the childhood of Jesus. While I found it to be delightful and entertaining, some who take their Christianity seriously may be offended. With that in mind, I suggest those who haven't given this series a try sample this issue (my favorite thus far).

American Way # 7 (Wildstorm Signature; by Koben): I can't believe it's already the penultimate issue. This insightful series, detailing race relations via superheroes of the sixties, has been an underdog contender for best new series of the year. After taking his revenge on psychopathic meta-killer Hellbent, the New American is on the run. The
heroes of the SDC (Southern Defense Corps) want him dead for killing a white man... a mass-murdering white man. Can the Civil Defense Corps reach him before he's lynched on national TV? It's time for the CDC to make their move, saving the soul of our great nation. I'll be honest with you... I actually shouted out a cheer when I got to the last page. It's just that cool. I'm eager to see what John Ridley writes as an encore to this brilliant series.

American Virgin # 6 (Vertigo; by Koben): While in Australia, Adam and his sister spend some quality time together with friends before going to a Christianity convention. Coincidentally, it's taking place the same time as gay pride celebration. The thing about Adam that I like so much, is that he isn't your typical cookie-cutter religion spokesman. While I may not share his views on many things, he actually accepts everyone. When the emcee of the con makes a smart remark about the proudly gay outside, Adam takes time to point out to his audience that the revelers are people, too, and that God loves them equally. One of my favorite things about this series is Adam's relationship with his sister. The two couldn't be any more different, but the familial unity they share transcends any boundaries. Not only are they step-brother and step-sister, but they're also friends. Becky Cloonan's indie-flavored art provides a delicious frosting for this unique Vertigo cake.

X-Factor #10 (Marvel; by Lucas): Hot damn. I'm going to stream of consciousness this pellet review, as the issue kind of read like a stream of consciousness to me. "Now I know why they call you MULTIPLE man" HA! "Saving myself for our wedding night" ZING! Just how old IS Mr. Tryp? Singularity strikes from within, a friend betrays us all (and he's done it once before- but not in this universe...), and Peter David's daughter won a bowling trophy. This story has kept the feel of a film noir that was started with the Madrox limited series, and that is perfect. Anyone wondering why the mutants deserve so many books need look no further than X-Factor. Action, intrigue, sex, violence, friendships, betrayals, Madrox, Madrox, Madrox, and of course Madrox. I give this issue 99 dupes out of 100, with one point lost because I'm a little pissed about that betrayal, as much as it will in fact enhance the story.

Young Avengers & Runaways #2 (Marvel; by Troy): Did they just smoke another Runaway? Really? While that fully remains to be seen, this offshoot mini continues to work well. For all their brash natures, the Young Avengers really are a traditional team in many respects, and I love that Wells explores that as a source of friction between them and the iconoclastic, role-model challenged Runaways. A familiar character from an older Marvel Knights mini rears his head, and things take a violent turn, even if the teams do actually start listening to one another. A solid piece among the wider tapestry of crossover minis.

Hero Squared #3 (Boom!; by Troy): Since Boom! is striking movie deals left and right, how about turning this one into an HBO series? The complex interrelationships and the fact that you have multiple versions of the same characters behaving in different ways could lend itself to some interesting acting. Certainly, the book is strong on its own, balancing big ridiculous laughs (watch as our heroes disrupt a funeral!) with some quiet moments of character-building drama. And when even your slacker pal calls you out on how you’ve messed up your life . . . you’re a loser, Milo. Great stuff.

Savage Red Sonja: Queen of the Frozen Wastes #1 (Dynamite; by Troy): Great art by Homs powers this tale of Sonja battling both upon and below the Frozen Wastes. Overall, it’s soundly plotted by Cho and Murray, but a couple of the touches are little too old-school (like all exclamation points, all the time in both caption and dialogue!). Still, the battle scenes crackle and the pace is brisk; Dynamite Sonja fans will dig it.


Best Shots team leader Troy Brownfield writes for Newsarama, Fangoria Comics, and runs ShotgunReviews.com. He’s also a professor of English, journalism and communication. Anyone wishing to submit their titles for review can contact Troy at psikotyk@aol.com. If you’re interested in taking a class with Troy via the miracle of Distance Learning, check out the program here http://www.smwc.edu/cgi-bin/site.pl?futureDistance , and specifically mention him or his areas (Journalism, Professional Writing, Creative Writing, Film Studies) when you call. The other plugs: www.shotgunreviews.com and www.myspace.com/shotgunreviews

[Commander X]

Wow... first post... I wish I had something intelligent to say.

I will say that I'm kicking myself for not trying Teen Titans OYL, it sounds consistently interesting. Have to grab the trade on that. Otherwise... thanks for another great round of reviews!

[FireLight]

AS Superman was just spectacular (I just had a 5 minute conversation with me 6 year old daughter about using different words other than AWESOME and GREAT every 6 seconds. Saying things like Wonderful, Spectacular, Amazing, Incredible or even Very Nice sounds so much better from a little girl ... Uh-hem ... Back to topic). Every panel - every balloon of text - everything was just what a Superman book should be. Ahhh! It was awesome.

X-Factor - count me in as shocked and loving it. You know - as I have gotten older and cynical - and realistic (you mean I'll REALLY not grow up to shoot ice from my finger tips? Damn.) I've also lost some of the 'magic feeling' I used to get from reading comics. Well PAD has brought me back to those days and those feelings.

Ultimate XMen Annual - eh - was ok. I thought the art was actually quite good. I thought the story was ok - there just wasn't that - that - that 'thing' that made me feel satisfied. Oh well.

Cable/Deadpool: "Oh, that's right, you're from the future." Yet Marvel isn't setting him up to look like an idiot and kill him off are they? Noooooo. And I used to like Duck Tape too.

Freedom Fighters: Just a very good issue. I like that I know nothing about these characters going into this title and that I find out as I go along. Lots of elements to exploit. I HATED the Bludhaven mini - but P&G stepped it up here. Alcuna just rocks.

Titans: As a reader from back in the New Teen Titans and the New Titans and almost every incarnation there has been since Wolfman brought them back in the 80's (LOVED the XMen crossover back then) - I loved seeing Red Star - loved seeing him grow as a character and feel sorry for him. Johns made me feel sorry for a make-believe image on paper. Works for me. I also liked his sorta Morrison-esque take on Red Star's current celebrity status and how it happened. Looking forward to Risk's development and Raven's reading. Good stuff. And I was also happily surprised by the art. Enough that I kept re-reading some pages to enjoy the imagery.

[Eric Palicki]

Originally Posted by MattBrady

The only place I could see that this had a negative impact on the art was on a couple pages where there was an interaction between Cable and Sabertooth. The art there wasn't bad at all, it was simply a different style from the rest of the book.

I am loving X-Men, and I'm a fan of both Bachalo and Carey from way back, but reading this page (I assume it's the one of which you're speaking), it seemed as though Cable and Sabretooth were about to make out.

[Michael P]

Originally Posted by Eric Palicki

I am loving X-Men, and I'm a fan of both Bachalo and Carey from way back, but reading this page (I assume it's the one of which you're speaking), it seemed as though Cable and Sabretooth were about to make out.

In some corners of fandom, that would be a selling point.

[c_andrew_s]

These reviews are amazing! I just want to thank the team; I look forward to reading these reviews every week.

[Beefy McHuge]

Black Panther was just awful. Instead of having the characters keep telling us over and over how great the marriage is, can't there be something the least bit interesting in their dynamic to convince us?

[khuxford]

Hi, my name is Kevin Huxford, and I forgot that Troy can edit mistakes after the fact. In this new altered reality, I actually didn't spell anything wrong in my review, necessitating my original "mea culpa" flavored post, and Wonder Woman was always a founding member of the Best Shots squad. Thank you.

Edit: Oh you wascally wabbit, Mr. Brownfield.

[TCJohnson]

Originally Posted by MattBrady

It's a bit odd to me how up and down I am on Palmiotti and Gray's writing. So far, I love this series. I've also enjoyed every issue of Hex. On the other hand, I can't get into Heroes For Hire, and I thought Battle For Bludhaven was atrocious. I
sincerely applaud their efforts to give each series they work on its own unique voice. This one just happens to work for me.

Justin Gray wasn't that pleased with Uncle Sam either. He has said that him and Palmiotti had a lot less time to work on it than they are used to.

[TCJohnson]

Originally Posted by khuxford

Hi, my name is Kevin Huxford, and I forgot that Troy can edit mistakes after the fact. In this new altered reality, I actually didn't spell anything wrong in my review, necessitating my original "mea culpa" flavored post, and Wonder Woman was always a founding member of the Best Shots squad. Thank you.

Actually, that was OJ Flow dessed as Wonder Woman who was a founding member.

[kingofcities]

Just want to say it's nice to see American Way getting some love here like this. This book is just fantastic. I don't have the actual sales numbers but I bet if I did they would tell me that this is one of those great books that slipped through the cracks and that is just unfortunate because I think most people don't realize what they're missing. This has been one of my favorite uses EVER of history in a fictional context. Could you imagine if they made a movie of this? It would be scorching controversial.

John Ridley is the new James Ellroy in my book. Very well done.

[Black Beetle]

Originally Posted by Eric Palicki

I am loving X-Men, and I'm a fan of both Bachalo and Carey from way back, but reading this page (I assume it's the one of which you're speaking), it seemed as though Cable and Sabretooth were about to make out.

Man, the sexual tension was insane!

[CitC]

I really enjoyed AS Supes as well. At the end of I was most struck with how menacing and in control Lex seemed, even in those retro shorty shorts

[DrCool976]

I have to echo the "Black Panther is awful" sentiments.

Unlike everybody else, I love the idea of Storm and T'Challa hooking up but the execution is sloppy and ham-fisted. Since this was Priest's idea, he should have been the one to execute it. Too bad Marvel did not give him the hype and support that they gave to Hudlin.

I may have to drop this book until they switch writers. I am a proud black man and even I find the constant references to race to be annoying and blunderbuss-like.

[Scarlet Mage]

So Freedom Fighters isn't the steaming pile of crap Heroes for Hire and the Battle For Bludhaven were? Sorry, the preview in Brave New World was so atrocious I don't care, especially with the bizarre body they drew the ridiculous Phantom Bimbo with.

And are we reading the same X-Men series? The coloring is so dark it hampers the very weak storytelling, everyone appears to have become ten years younger, and how stylized it is gets out of control every few panels. And the story? It's a mystery with NO clues but appears to be yet another third race story and has Sabre Tooth joining? Get serious. Rogue was one thing back in the day but she had no body count and she hadn't holed up in the mansion before and tried to slaughter everyone. I've bought my last issue of that crap and the incredibly boring Astonishing X-Men with its pinderous plot and static artwork. Give me Brubaker's team any day and maybe even X-Factor, if they ever get an artist. I'm tired of tehbook being so ugly.

And way to go Kirkman! I hated the first few issues I picked up since returning to comics but the Magician three parter and this Annual have me feeling the love. Rogue's last words in the story blew me away. Who saw that coming? I just wonder at Xavier's ethics with the way he's planning on dealing with Kurt. Does he have an ethical or moral right to do that? People have a right to be wrong and even f 'ed up.

[*Diablo*]

Hmmm, I can't say I loved this awkward Ultimate annual.
Really heartbreaking for the Nightcrawler fans...
I hope Kirkman knows where he's leading the elf. To just see him disappear like that would be an enormous disappointment.
Rogue's last line was particularly horrible.

[painters_eye]

After finishing the book, I'm sure he was the best man for this particular job. It's just that I know he's capable of better. It brings to mind the difference between what a certain artist produced for New X-Men in a matter of days versus what he produced for Cable when he actually had time to it right.

Anyone know what artist seemingly mailed in the effort in New X-men but did a good job on Cable?

Thanks

[FireLight]

Originally Posted by painters_eye

After finishing the book, I'm sure he was the best man for this particular job. It's just that I know he's capable of better. It brings to mind the difference between what a certain artist produced for New X-Men in a matter of days versus what he produced for Cable when he actually had time to it right.

Anyone know what artist seemingly mailed in the effort in New X-men but did a good job on Cable?

Thanks

Igor Kordey

Although he didn't really 'mail' it in - he had to rush it in because he was filling the gaps between Quietly and Van Sciver. Also - as much as I love Bachalo (especially back in his SHADE and GHOST RIDER 2099 days and style) - his Morrison New X-Men run was actually worse than Kordey's.

[justice~!]

Anyone okay with spoiling me?

[Doowhaadiddy]

Originally Posted by Beefy McHuge

Black Panther was just awful. Instead of having the characters keep telling us over and over how great the marriage is, can't there be something the least bit interesting in their dynamic to convince us?

I'm afraid, given the history of the writer's previous output (Reginald Hudlin - see the gawd awful MK Knights Spider-Man run), I'm afraid that you won't get anything other than finger clickin' instantaneous "I know! I'll do (...this ... or that.. the fans will just love ... this... or that...) sensationalist plot ideas that are eyeball rolling, tedious and smack of an inability to develop a story or any characterisation.

So the answer is likely "No".
Just my opinion though.. why I don't go near Black Panther. Good to hear the Marriage is "great".

[jexxel453]

Originally Posted by *Diablo*

Hmmm, I can't say I loved this awkward Ultimate annual.
Really heartbreaking for the Nightcrawler fans...
I hope Kirkman knows where he's leading the elf. To just see him disappear like that would be an enormous disappointment.
Rogue's last line was particularly horrible.

Sorry to break it to you but he doesn't. Kirkman will do what he always does with his plot ideas. Bring it up in one issue, then he wont even mention it again until he resolves it out of the blue six issues later. You know like how Rogue had Gambit's power and personality in her head and not a thing was written about it until this issue where she talks to the professor about it for the first time then she loses the powers at the end of the issue. Kirkman has been made the regular writer on this series and it was the worst Ultimate X-Men announcment since Millar's departure was announced.

[LucasSiegel]

c_andrew_s, thanks for the kind words! Glad you're enjoying yourself.

Eric Palicki, I totally agree! They were practically in eachother's faces! It's ok, though, Cable's entrance had me squeeling like a school girl, so I'll forgive it.

justice~!, I PMed you with the spoiler. Enjoy.

A question to readers of my reviews- do you like me keeping them spoiler free, or would you rather I just put the warning out there and then spoiled away?

[Hu5h]

Teen Titans: as someone who just got into comics post-Graduation Day, not knowing who alot of the character's mentioned (Argent, Risk, Red Star) were and having no emotional connection to them, I probably did'nt enjoy this issue as much as I could have; though im glad to see Mas y Menos given a nod.

And while the art from Ferriera was great, I miss Tony Daniel. I'd like to see more from this artist somewhere, just not as a fill-in. Does anyone know if Daniel's will be back next issue?


My Favorite Read of the week? X-FACTOR for SURE.
this is consistenly one of the best books coming from marvel, and i hope it get's more attention and pull within the greater MU; the Civil War tie-in was great, but i hope it affects the rest of the CW narrative at least in some little way and wasn't just a token move to bring CW into XF and not the other way around.

[Stormbreaker]

To be frank, the only issue out of the ones they chose to review this week was X-Men, which I review in *PLUG* reviews over at Soulpole *See my sig*. I think Carey's doing a very good job with this title thus far. The one thing that I'm glad to FINALLY SEE SOMEONE DO is write Rogue with a southern accent. I've seen too many people write her as they would anyone else. Guess what? She doesn't speak like everyone else. She's got the accent, as does Cannonball. I'm not saying to make it stereotypical or outright offensive, which I think many writers have been afraid they would if they wrote it in, but make it present. It'd be like writing Colossus without a Russian accent (Joss Whedon, I'm looking at you) or Nightcrawler without a German accent (everyone since Claremont, I'm looking at you). As for Bachalo, 188 was really rough, 189 was excellent and 190 was a mix of good and bad. The Sabretooth/Cable scene was a tad rough for my taste, but the rest of the issue was quite solid. I'll undoubtedly jabber about Brubaker next week when his next X-Issue is undoubtedly reviewed. This is, though, a very good time to be an X-Men and Uncanny X-Men fan. Astonishing is too slow for its own good.

[JamesMallone]

Originally Posted by FireLight

Igor Kordey

Although he didn't really 'mail' it in - he had to rush it in because he was filling the gaps between Quietly and Van Sciver. Also - as much as I love Bachalo (especially back in his SHADE and GHOST RIDER 2099 days and style) - his Morrison New X-Men run was actually worse than Kordey's.

Heh, yeah I could see that. To be honest though, I immediatley thought of Micheal Ryan, but that would require him to be talking about the New X-Men: Acadamy X series.